Spring-Loaded Sensor Probe with Linear Actuator for Bio-Conductance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for measuring bioelectric conductance values at anatomical dermal conductance points are challenging due to inaccurate, unrepeatable readings, patient discomfort, and lengthy examination times, largely because of difficulties in precisely locating these points and the need for multiple devices, which can introduce clinical errors and compromise electrical potential.
Innovation Solution
A probe device with a pressure-regulated electrode tip and integrated force sensor, utilizing a spring-loaded sensor head and actuator to apply consistent force, ensuring accurate readings by measuring and controlling the force applied to the skin, thereby improving data collection and assessment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual pressure application is used to contact the probe tip with skin, then the device is simple to operate, but the force applied is inconsistent leading to inaccurate and unrepeatable readings
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical pressure application with an automated linear actuator system. The actuator precisely controls the extension and retraction of the probe tip, applying consistent force through a spring mechanism. This substitution of manual mechanical operation with an automated actuation system resolves the contradiction by ensuring repeatable force application while maintaining reasonable device complexity through the use of standard actuator components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements force sensing resistance to detect and measure the contact force between the probe tip and skin. By monitoring this force parameter and using feedback control, the system adjusts the actuator's extension distance to maintain optimal contact pressure. This parameter-based control approach enables accurate and repeatable readings without requiring complex mechanical force application mechanisms.
2Reliability
If multiple devices are used to locate and measure conductance points, then comprehensive data can be collected, but clinical errors increase and electrical potential is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single integrated probe device. The probe simultaneously performs localization of conductance points through force sensing, measurement of bioelectric conductance, and controlled contact force application. This consolidation of functions into one device eliminates the need for multiple separate devices, reducing clinical errors and preserving electrical potential while maintaining comprehensive data collection capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The probe device is designed with multi-functionality to perform various tasks: locating anatomical landmarks through tactile feedback, measuring bioelectric conductance at identified points, and controlling contact force consistently. This universal design allows a single device to replace multiple specialized devices, improving reliability by eliminating transfer errors between devices while keeping the system manageable in complexity.
3Measurement precision
If the probe tip is pressed firmly against the skin to ensure good contact, then electrical conductance readings improve, but patient discomfort increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control system using force sensing resistance to monitor the contact force between the probe tip and patient skin. The system continuously measures the applied force and adjusts the linear actuator's extension to maintain optimal contact pressure for accurate conductance readings. This feedback mechanism ensures sufficient contact for good electrical connection while preventing excessive force that would cause patient discomfort.
Solution Approach 2:
The probe system transitions from static manual pressure application to dynamic automated control. The linear actuator can adjust the contact force in real-time based on feedback from the force sensor, adapting to different patients and measurement conditions. This dynamic control allows the system to apply precisely the right amount of force needed for accurate measurements without causing unnecessary discomfort, resolving the contradiction between reading quality and patient comfort.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides accurate, repeatable bioelectric conductance readings with reduced patient discomfort and examination time, enhancing diagnostic precision by ensuring consistent force application and improving data collection.
Implementation Method 1
a linear actuator that applies a force to extend and retract an electrode tip
Implementation Method 2
a spring that exerts a force on the electrode tip
Implementation Method 3
a force sensor that measures the force of the spring
Data Source
AI summary
A probe device provides an enhanced bioelectric and spring-loaded sensing tip with an integrated force sensor. The probe device measures the bioelectric conductance value from a patient for therapeutic and/or diagnostic purpose using the spring-loaded sensing tip. In addition, the probe device measures the force applied by the spring-loaded sensing tip against the patient using the integrated force sensor. Using feedback from the force sensor and the bioconductive data of the patient, the force applied at the spring-loaded sensing tip may be adjusted to obtain improved results.